Raising a glass to the Chief

Sales of a new beer launched locally in memory of a former St Albans resident are to help raise funds for Rennie Grove Hospice Care.

Chief Jester has been produced by Wheathampstead-based Farr Brew in tribute to Joe ‘Chief’ Paul who died in an accident on holiday in 2009, aged 25.

Friend Nick Farr described Joe as “a chap who always went the extra mile in working for local charities and caring for those near and dear to him.” He added: “We want to use Farr Brew to continue his work supporting local hospices and celebrate his good name.”

Chief Jester - an amber/pale session ale created using a new strain of hops called ‘Jester’ - made its debut at Ye Olde Fighting Cocks at a launch party in the spring and is now being sold in 20 or so pubs around the region. Readers might also have had chance to taste it at St Albans’ Meraki summer festival, where Farr Brew ran the well-stocked bar selling a range of ales, ciders, wines and drinks for the kids.

Ten per cent of Chief Jester sales will be donated to Rennie Grove, whose nurses provide vital care and support to people with life-limiting conditions and their families in Herts and Bucks.

Joe lived and grew up in St Albans where he worked as a builder. He is sadly missed by his good friends and loving family.

“Joe was an amazing person and a true lover of good beer. We’re sure he would be pleased with what we have created. The pump clip and branding has been designed to celebrate his interests and passions,” said Nick.

In launching the new beer on its website, Farr Brew explains: “We are delighted to be working with Rennie Grove and will be donating 10 per cent of the profits of every pint drunk of ‘Chief Jester’ to their great works. We think Chief would have been proud.